By Pam Albrecht, Social Media and Marketing Manager, Albrecht & AssociatesHave you been out shopping, wrapping presents, baking cookies, going to (and hosting) ugly sweater, gingerbread house decorating or cookie exchange parties? On top of all that, you are trying to finish out the year strong in your business, finish up last minute client projects, go to various networking parties and reach out to your clients to thank them for their business.WHEW!! When does it end? (Answer: probably around January 2nd!)This time of the year can be a huge source of stress for many people and can turn an otherwise joyous time into a time of dread and anxiety. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Even with all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, you can still do it without added stress.Here are a few ways to cruise through this season with ease:1. Take time for yourself. You may be focused on making sure the holidays are perfect for everyone else, but don’t forget about YOU! Take a little time out of your day (even 3 – 5 minutes) to just reflect and relax. If you can, schedule a massage or other spa service. You will feel so much better afterwards and have a brighter outlook.2. Everything doesn’t have to be perfect. Are you trying the find the perfect gifts, create ‘Martha Stewart-looking’ packages and bake every Christmas cookie recipe you have? Forgetaboutit! I remember my parents wrapping some of our presents in the Sunday comics and we would all laugh about it. (We still get packages that way occasionally!) And we regularly use wrapping paper that was used for another gift. If the package is big enough, the person opening asks ‘do you want this wrapping paper back?’ (Way to be eco-friendly!) It’s okay if everything isn’t perfect. It’s the thought that counts!3. Remember the reason for the season. Whether you are celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa or another holiday this season, remember the real reason for the season to put things in perspective. Go to church, spend time with family and friends, and worry less about presents and doo-dads.Don’t let the holidays drag you down. Enjoy them more by taking time for you and realizing everything doesn’t have to be perfect. Here’s to a prosperous new year to all – and to all a good night!Pam Albrecht is a marketing and social media manager at Albrecht & Associates. She works with small business owners who don’t have the time, desire or knowledge to execute the details of a marketing plan by providing virtual marketing support.Connect with Pam:Website: http://www.albrechtandassoc.com/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AlbrechtandAssocLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/pamelaalbrecht/Twitter: https://twitter.com/PamAlbrechtIL